"I personally hate guns. I have never owned or even fired one. I wish they didn’t exist, but they do" - Everyone should try to put at least two dozen rounds down the range. It's a great experience, and it can help you focus, make your mind faster and clearer (IPSC is simply awesome - go to an event).
I don't really care about the self defense aspect - even though it's enticing, having some of my stuff stolen is probably better than killing a person.